Work Equipment / Lifting Equipment

THE PROVISION AND USE OF WORK EQUIPMENT REGULATIONS

(PUWER) 1998

and

THE LIFTING OPERATIONS AND LIFTING EQUIPMENT (LOLER)

REGULATIONS 1998

Introduction

This guide provides information about the legal requirements of the above legislation and gives a general indication of some of the main requirements of the Regulations.

PUWER 98, while replacing PUWER 92, continues its requirements in addition to introducing new measures. The HSC has produced and published associated Approved Codes of Practice (ACOP) which provide practical advice on how to comply with the requirements of the new Regulations. These are entitled:

"Safe Use of Work Equipment"

"Safe Use of Woodworking Machinery"

"Safe Use of Power Presses"

"Safe Use of Lifting Equipment"

It should be noted that ACOP's have a special legal status and relevant provisions should normally be followed to comply with the law.

It is therefore recommended that Schools/Units obtain a copy of any of the ACOP's which are relevant to their activities and take appropriate steps to put in place arrangements to ensure compliance with relevant provisions.

Main new requirements of PUWER: The main new requirements of PUWER concern mobile work equipment, lifting equipment and the inspection of work equipment.

Note:While PUWER applies to all lifting equipment, the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) 1989 applies over and above the general requirements of PUWER, in dealing with specific hazards/risks associated with lifting equipment and lifting operations. An ACOP with supporting guidance has been produced and published by the HSC.

Action by Heads

It is expected that Heads of Schools/Units will ensure that the requirements of the above legislation are implemented in all areas under their control.

Mandatory Inspection/Testing of Lifting Equipment: It is also expected that Heads will ensure that all School/Unit lifting equipment is registered with Estates and Buildings for mandatory inspection/testing purposes.